By: Rex Conerly, Travel Consultant
Summary
Majestic! Incredible! Beautiful! These and many similar phrases have described the vistas seen on this tour for generations. Be it the breathtaking scale of the Grand Canyon, the beauty of the plateaus of Monument Valley, the incredible rock formations of Bryce Canyon or the grandeur of Zion Canyon, experiencing what this tour offers should be on everyone’s bucket list.
High temperatures are a given at these locations during the summer, but since I am used to the heat and humidity of Houston, the heat wasn’t a factor for me during this tour. I will acknowledge that a person not used to heat and humidity may prefer a tour in the Spring or Fall. For all others, especially those limited to being able to travel in the summer, I would not let the hot temperatures scare you away from going.
While visiting the National Parks, I saw many visitors that were having a different experience than what our group was having, due to not enjoying the benefits of being on a tour. Noted below are some of the lessons I learned about the benefits of tours while visiting this area:
- Parking can be a challenge at these parks, especially during busy times. When you are finally able to find a place to park, you will typically be a LONG way from the points of interest. Walking in the hot sun on concrete didn’t look like fun. Our tour bus dropped us off and picked us up at the entrance of the points of interest every time. That was a huge plus!
- The tour company spoiled us every step of the way. No handling of luggage, no worrying about hotel reservations, figuring out where to go, what to see, waiting in lines to buy tickets for optional tours, etc. Over time, I can see how managing these details could become a hassle.
- We travelled over one thousand miles to visit these amazing National Parks. Throughout the trip I was able to look out the window of the tour bus and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Those who made the trip behind the wheel of a car were forced to focus on the road, not the scenery. It is not hard to imagine who had the better overall experience.
- The saying ‘you don’t know what you don’t know’ applied clearly on this trip. One of the highlights of the week was a stop at a Navaho reservation, where we took a private tour of a canyon that was spectacularly beautiful. Most of us on the tour had never heard of this place, and I would wager there are massive numbers of travelers who drive right by this amazing location due to not knowing about it. Being on a tour helps avoid missed opportunities!
Day One – Phoenix
Arrived in Phoenix and was welcomed to a warm 115-degree temperature. I soon met up with our Tour Director Daniel, who was very knowledgeable and familiar with the territory. I met up with my other traveling companions during dinner that evening.
Day Two – Sedona To Grand Canyon
The drive north to the Grand Canyon took us through the scenic and cactus-laden scenery of the Arizona countryside. We had a stop in Sedona, where we took a tour on an off-road vehicle to the beautiful Monument Valley, where many westerns were filmed by Hollywood.
Day Three – Grand Canyon
The word “majestic” comes to mind when thinking back on the Grand Canyon. Pictures do no justice to the beauty and mesmerizing views the Canyon has to offer. This is a site I will remember for the rest of my life.
Day Four – Antelope Slot Canyon Park
Even after considering the amazing experience at the Grand Canyon, I have to say this stop was my favorite. Not built up or bragged about, the Antelope Slot Canyon tour was amazing. Mother Nature created an absolute masterpiece with this one!
Day Five – Lake Powell
The two overnights in Lake Powell were perfect. The resort was very welcoming and there was plenty to do. You can take tours to the Navajo Nation, take a stroll on the beach or just hang out at the resort pool. Many options to fit your style and interest.
Day Six – Bryce Canyon
This stop showed the unique bright red, yellow and orange colors of the “hoodoos” of Bryce Canyon. These formations resemble castle towers, created on the side of the mountains. Another location where pictures do no justice. The views at sunset are spectacular.
Day Seven – Zion National Park
Spending the morning at Zion National Park was great. The park has beautiful trails along the Virgin River, with stunning views everywhere!
Day Eight – Las Vegas, Farewell
The last stop was in Las Vegas. All the bright lights and allure of Vegas were in full swing. We had our farewell dinner in the evening which was excellent. Treasure Island did not disappoint. I met some great people on the tour, and we bid each other farewell in the morning.
On to the next adventure!
